Nejishiki

This collection of stories showcases Yoshiharu Tsuge's iconic work, exploring themes of longing and surrealism in postwar Japan.

In Nejishiki, readers are introduced to some of the most iconic scenes crafted by Yoshiharu Tsuge, a pivotal figure in the world of avant-garde manga. This collection not only showcases his highly respected body of work but also highlights the beloved stories that have resonated with audiences for decades. The title story centers on an injured young man who meanders through a village filled with strangers, desperately seeking both emotional and physical release. This journey serves as a metaphor for the broader struggles of postwar Japanese society, capturing a sense of dislocation and yearning.

The collection also features a series of tales about weary travelers who navigate sultry nights and confront menacing doppelgangers. Even mundane activities, such as afternoon strolls, reveal unsettling impulses lurking beneath the surface. Tsuge's emotionally charged and erotically vivid imagery remains striking, maintaining its shock value over fifty years after its initial release. Each story pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling, inviting readers to explore the depths of human experience.

As protagonists traverse eerie landscapes that blur the lines between dream and reality, they confront their own desires and fears. The angst that permeates their journeys reflects the complexities of a society grappling with its past. In Nejishiki, Tsuge's characters embody a profound wanderlust that transforms into surreal encounters, making this collection a compelling exploration of the human condition.